I was reading a walkthrough that mentioned about bringing your weapons to the next episode. I guess this was possible in earlier versions of the game? I just wanted to make sure before I continued with the next episode. Thanks for the reply!

All the original versions of Duke Nukem 3D for PC did not have episode progression. Duke Nukem 64 had all the levels in one but they were differently (slightly to varied) and had different weapons. The PS1 version did not have episode progression. I believe the Saturn version was the only one that had episode progression.

Each map is supposed to be beatable at any of the difficulties using only the pistol and boot as starting weapons, so it's not so bad. In the later maps there is usually a shotgun placed close to the starting point to get you going.

Having just played the Xbox 360 version today, I can confirm that the game continues into the next episode after you beat an episode. Also for everyone's information, the Xbox 360 version still allows you to choose among the 4 episodes.You also get to choose a specific level, which will start you off with just the pistol, adding credibility to the statement that all levels are designed to be beatable with just the pistol. the first level of every episode is unlocked, and the rest unlock as you get to them, or beat them, or whatever.